COLUMBUS, OH -- Ohio's most active recreational boating period of the year is just around the corner with the upcoming July 4 holiday, according to the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR).
"The busy Independence Day week attracts thousands of boaters to Ohio's lakes, rivers and streams," said Jeff Hoedt, chief of the ODNR Division of Watercraft. "To help assure a safe and enjoyable boating experience, we urge all boaters to take a few minutes to review basic boating safety."
The Division of Watercraft offers the following boating tips for this July 4th holiday period:
- Be smart from the start and wear your life jacket.
- Boating while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is not only illegal, it's unsafe and may lead to tragedy.
- Be courteous, patient and observant of other boaters and personal watercraft users, especially in areas of high traffic.
- File a float plan to advise someone of your plans and expected time of return.
- Do not overload your boat with people or gear, which may result in falling overboard, swamping or capsizing.
- Remember to observe all boating laws and navigation markers.
- Have a state watercraft officer or local marine patrol officer perform a free vessel safety check on your boat.
- Operate watercraft at a safe speed for existing conditions. Keep a proper lookout.
- Take note of weather forecasts and special marine advisories.
More than 400,000 watercraft are registered in the state and an estimated 3.5 million Ohioans participate in recreational boating each year.
ODNR reminds Ohioans that any person born on or after January 1, 1982 must successfully complete an approved boater education course or ODNR Division of Watercraft proficiency exam before operating any watercraft powered by more than 10 horsepower.
For Further Information Contact:
John Wisse, ODNR Division of Watercraft
(614) 265-6695
-or-
Andy Ware, ODNR Media Relations
(614) 265-6882